Absorption of carbon dioxide in ethylenediamine solutions ii. pilot plant study of absorption and regeneration

Carbon dioxide removal by aqueous ethylenediamine has been studied in 4‐inch diameter absorption and stripping columns packed with 1/2‐inch Intalox saddles Mass transfer coefficients for absorption were appreciably gas phase controlled and three to four times greater than those for caustic soda. Film theory predictions reproduced the absorption data to within 20% or better Equilibrium data were obtained by using the stripping column reboiler as an equilibrium stage. The enthalpy and rate of carbamate decomposition were inferred from these results, and transfer unit heights were determined for stripping The economics of this process are unfavourable because of the high steam demand and suggest that regeneration equilibria alone can be used for the rough evaluation of new chemical absorbents